Ailing youngster has wish fulfilled in day with Masontown K-9 officer

MASONTOWN, Pa. - Isaac Donaldson stood at the ready, eyes on the “bad guy” hiding in the woods at Masontown German Park Wednesday afternoon.

As the 7-year-old from White and Masontown Officer and K-9 handler Mike Yeager watched, the decoy criminal, constable Robert Smith, peeked out from the trees.

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“Police K-9! Stop or we will send the dog,” Isaac and Yeager shouted.

Isaac then pushed the device Yeager carries to pop open the K-9 Unit, and 88 pounds of muscle — a German shepherd named Brony — bounded from the vehicle.

As Brony grabbed Smith, who wore protective gear, Yeager issued another command and put the dog back on his leash.

Isaac, a boy with serious health problems who wants to become a police officer, was able to spend a shift as a K-9 handler on Wednesday.

He was diagnosed with Arnold Chiari Brain Malformation, a birth defect, several years ago, his mother, Katina Donaldson, said.

He had brain surgery two years ago and suffers from migraines and muscle soreness and tires easily. He had strep throat 13 times two winters ago, Donaldson said.

Because of his numerous medical appointments, Isaac is enrolled in cyber school. Donaldson, a single mother, helps him with his studies.

While she was at the Fayette County Courthouse recently to pay their taxes, Isaac was enthralled by the security staff, Donaldson said.

“He's always wanted to be a police officer. That's all he ever talks about. Sometimes when we are out driving he will say, ‘Mom, that person just ran a red light. We should get his license plate and call the police,'” she said.